Wieliczka Salt Mine — A world treasure unknown outside eastern Europe

From Wikipedia:

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The mine, built in the 13th century, produced table salt continuously until 2007, as one of the world's oldest salt mines still in operation.

[From an email accompanying a number of these photos: "It may feel like you are in the middle of a Jules Verne adventure as you descend into the depths of the world. After a 500-foot climb down wooden stairs, the visitor will see some amazing sights."]

From its beginning and throughout its existence, the Royal mine was run by the Żupy krakowskie Salt Mines.

Commercial mining was discontinued in 1996 due to low salt prices and mine flooding."

The mine's attractions include dozens of statues and an entire chapel that has been carved out of the rock salt by the miners.

The oldest sculptures are augmented by the new carvings by actual artists.

About 1.2 million people visit the Wieliczka Salt Mine annually.

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[via Virginia Moore]